Uber confirms plans to return to Southend with new licence application

Uber has announced that it is seeking a licence to operate again in Southend, with the ride-hailing company saying it is formally applying through Southend City Council.

The global tech firm, known for its app-based service connecting passengers with private hire drivers, said it hopes the council will approve its application and allow it to boost local transport options.

A spokesperson for Uber said:
“We are in the process of applying for a licence to operate in Southend-on-Sea and hope the Council will welcome this opportunity. Uber will boost earning opportunities for local drivers, provide passengers with greater transport options across the city and support the local economy.”

Uber has previously operated in Southend, but its presence has been inconsistent due to regulatory challenges and competition with local taxi firms. If granted a licence, the city would join other UK locations where Uber has regained approval, including London, Manchester and Birmingham.

Community divided on Uber’s return

The prospect of Uber’s return has split opinion among Southend residents. Some see it as a welcome step to improve taxi services, while others argue that local cab drivers and safety standards must remain the priority.

Nathan Lamb said: “Competitors shouldn’t have to worry provided they give an equally decent service. Last few times I’ve ordered a cab locally it’s been pretty poor.”

Craig Banthorpe added: “100% bring Uber back. Getting a cab in Southend has been getting more and more difficult as the cab drivers are refusing to accept the jobs, depending on how you’re paying. And I’m not always in a position where I have my wallet on me to be able to get cash out.”

Tracey Jay said: “Uber should only be allowed if they have been checked out, have the right insurance and their cars are fit for purpose.”

Another local, who wishes to remain anonymous, highlighted the pressure on the industry: “There are hardships faced by local cabbies since the pandemic – where many lost everything. Now the trade has recovered but the public have become increasingly impatient and rude. It’s not an easy job and it would be good to see the cabbies celebrated.”

Response from Southend City Council

Councillor Paul Collins, Cabinet Member for Finance, Assets, Investments and Public Transport, said:
“We note Uber’s intention to apply for licence to operate in our City. We expect our Officers and the Licensing Committee to oversee this process and leave the final decision to them, whether this application is successful, or not.”

Council leader Daniel Cowan also addressed misconceptions that Uber had previously been banned in Southend. He said:
“This Council has never refused an application for an operator’s licence from Uber. Under the Local Government Miscellaneous Provisions Act 1976, the Council is legally bound under section 55 (1) to grant an operator’s licence unless they are satisfied that the applicant is not a fit and proper person to hold an operator’s licence.”

Uber’s UK regulatory battles

Uber’s application in Southend comes against the backdrop of a wider history of regulatory challenges in the UK.

In London, Transport for London (TfL) has previously refused to renew Uber’s licence, citing concerns over passenger safety, insurance and driver checks. After several appeals and court rulings, Uber eventually secured a licence to continue operating in the capital, but only under strict conditions.

Elsewhere, Uber has faced scrutiny from councils and regulators over its employment model, which has been criticised for classifying drivers as self-employed rather than workers with benefits. In 2021, a landmark Supreme Court ruling required Uber to grant drivers worker rights, including holiday pay and minimum wage guarantees.

These ongoing disputes highlight the complexities of balancing consumer demand, driver welfare and regulatory oversight – a tension that Southend’s councillors will now have to weigh as they consider the application.

Your Southend contacted multiple taxi companies already operating in Southend for a comment on this story, but none responded.